Bargain Homes for a Buck? How Small Towns Entice Newcomers

Small towns worldwide, from rural Nebraska to remote Italian villages, are offering nearly free houses to attract fresh residents and revive local economies. Pawnee City, NE, for instance, provides $50,000 to prospective homeowners, hoping to populate schools and businesses. In Italy, one-euro houses lure adventurous buyers—though these properties typically need substantial renovations. The pitch appeals to those seeking a slower pace or a creative project, but pitfalls exist: labor scarcities, structural overhauls, and strict renovation deadlines. Still, success stories abound: couples who transform derelict homes into charming B&Bs or remote workers relishing scenic serenity.